ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

8-Bit Serial I/O A/D Converters with Multiplexer Options

General Description
The ADC0831 series are 8-bit successive approximation A/D
converters with a serial I/O and configurable input multiplexers with up to 8 channels. The serial I/O is configured to
comply with the NSC MICROWIRE serial data exchange
standard for easy interface to the COPS family of processors, and can interface with standard shift registers or Ps.
The 2-, 4- or 8-channel multiplexers are software configured
for single-ended or differential inputs as well as channel
assignment.
The differential analog voltage input allows increasing the
common-mode rejection and offsetting the analog zero input
voltage value. In addition, the voltage reference input can be
adjusted to allow encoding any smaller analog voltage span
to the full 8 bits of resolution.

Features
n NSC MICROWIRE compatible direct interface to
COPS family processors
n Easy interface to all microprocessors, or operates
stand-alone

n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n
n

Operates ratiometrically or with 5 VDC voltage reference

No zero or full-scale adjust required
2-, 4- or 8-channel multiplexer options with address logic
Shunt regulator allows operation with high voltage
supplies
0V to 5V input range with single 5V power supply
Remote operation with serial digital data link
TTL/MOS input/output compatible
0.3" standard width, 8-, 14- or 20-pin DIP package
20 Pin Molded Chip Carrier Package (ADC0838 only)
Surface-Mount Package

Key Specifications
n
n
n
n
n

Resolution
Total Unadjusted Error
Single Supply
Low Power
Conversion Time

8 Bits

12 LSB and 1 LSB

5 VDC
15 mW
32 s

Typical Application

00558301

TRI-STATE is a registered trademark of National Semiconductor Corporation.

COPS and MICROWIRE are trademarks of National Semiconductor Corporation.

2002 National Semiconductor Corporation

DS005583

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838 8-Bit Serial I/O A/D Converters with Multiplexer Options

July 2002

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Connection Diagrams

ADC0832 2-Channel MUX

Small Outline Package (WM)

ADC0838 8-Channel Mux

Small Outline/Dual-In-Line Package (WM and N)

00558341

Top View
ADC0831 Single
Differential Input
Dual-In-Line Package (N)

00558308

Top View
ADC0834 4-Channel MUX
Small Outline/Dual-In-Line Package (WM and N)

00558332

Top View
ADC0831 Single Differential Input
Small Outline Package (WM)

00558330

COM internally connected to A GND

Top View

Top View
ADC0832 2-Channel MUX
Dual-In-Line Package (N)
00558342

Top View
ADC0838 8-Channel MUX
Molded Chip Carrier (PCC) Package (V)
00558331

COM internally connected to GND.

VREF internally connected to VCC.
Top View

Top View

00558333

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Part Number
ADC0831CCN

Analog Input

Total

Channels

Unadjusted Error

ADC0831CCWM
ADC0832CIWM
ADC0832CCN
ADC0832CCWM
ADC0834BCN

ADC0834CCN

12
1

ADC0834CCWM
ADC0838BCV

ADC0838CCV

12
1

ADC0838CCN

Package

Temperature

Molded (N)

0C to +70C

Range
SO(M)

0C to +70C

SO(M)

40C to +85C

Molded (N)

0C to +70C

SO(M)

0C to +70C

Molded (N)

0C to +70C

Molded (N)

0C to +70C

SO(M)

0C to +70C

PCC (V)

0C to +70C

PCC (V)

0C to +70C

Molded (N)

0C to +70C

ADC0838CIWM

SO(M)

40C to +85C

ADC0838CCWM

SO(M)

0C to +70C

See NS Package Number M14B, M20B, N08E, N14A,

N20A or V20A

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Ordering Information

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Absolute Maximum Ratings

Dual-In-Line Package (Plastic)

(Notes 1,

Molded Chip Carrier Package

Vapor Phase (60 sec.)

2)
If Military/Aerospace specified devices are required,
please contact the National Semiconductor Sales Office/
Distributors for availability and specifications.
+

Current into V (Note 3)

260C
215C

Infrared (15 sec.)

220C

ESD Susceptibility (Note 5)

2000V

15 mA

Supply Voltage, VCC (Note 3)

Operating Ratings (Notes 1, 2)

6.5V

Voltage
Logic Inputs
Analog Inputs

4.5 VDC to 6.3 VDC

Temperature Range

TMINTATMAX

0.3V to VCC +
0.3V

ADC0832/8CIWM

40C to +85C

ADC0834BCN,
ADC0838BCV,

5 mA
20 mA

Input Current per Pin (Note 4)

Package
Storage Temperature

Supply Voltage, VCC

0.3V to VCC +
0.3V

ADC0831/2/4/8CCN,
ADC0838CCV,

65C to +150C

ADC0831/2/4/8CCWM

Package Dissipation
at TA =25C (Board Mount)

0C to +70C

0.8W

Lead Temperature (Soldering 10

sec.)

Converter and Multiplexer Electrical Characteristics The following specifications apply for
VCC = V+ = VREF = 5V, VREF VCC +0.1V, TA = Tj = 25C, and fCLK = 250 kHz unless otherwise specified. Boldface limits
apply from TMIN to TMAX.
Conditions

CIWM Devices

BCV, CCV, CCWM, BCN

and CCN Devices

Parameter

Typ

Tested

Design

Typ

Tested

Design

(Note 12)

Limit

Limit

(Note 12)

Limit

Limit

(Note 13)

(Note 14)

12
12
1
1
1

12
12
1
1
1

(Note 13) (Note 14)

Units

CONVERTER AND MULTIPLEXER CHARACTERISTICS

Total Unadjusted Error

VREF =5.00 V

ADC0838BCV

(Note 6)

ADC0834BCN
ADC0838CCV
ADC0831/2/4/8CCN
ADC0831/2/4/8CCWM

LSB
(Max)

ADC0832/8CIWM
Minimum Reference

3.5

1.3

3.5

1.3

1.3

3.5

5.9

3.5

5.4

5.9

Input Resistance (Note 7)

Maximum Reference
Input Resistance (Note 7)
Maximum Common-Mode
Input Range (Note 8)

VCC +0.05

VCC +0.05 VCC+0.05

Minimum Common-Mode
Input Range (Note 8)

GND 0.05

GND 0.05 GND0.05

1/16

DC Common-Mode Error
Change in zero

15 mA into V+

error from VCC =5V

VCC =N.C.

to internal zener

VREF =5V

14

operation (Note 3)
VZ, internal
diode breakdown

MIN 15 mA into V+
MAX

(at V+) (Note 3)

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1/16

14

14

LSB

LSB

6.3

6.3

6.3

8.5

8.5

8.5

Conditions

CIWM Devices

BCV, CCV, CCWM, BCN

and CCN Devices

Parameter

Typ

Tested

Design

Typ

Tested

Design

(Note 12)

Limit

Limit

(Note 12)

Limit

Limit

(Note 13)

(Note 14)

14

14

LSB

0.2

+0.2

+1

0.2

+0.2

+1

(Note 13) (Note 14)

Units

CONVERTER AND MULTIPLEXER CHARACTERISTICS

Power Supply Sensitivity

VCC =5V 5%

1/16

14

IOFF, Off Channel Leakage

On
Channel=5V,

0.2

Current (Note 9)

Off
Channel=0V

On
Channel=0V,

+0.2

Off
Channel=5V

+1

ION, On Channel Leakage

On
Channel=0V,

0.2

Current (Note 9)

Off
Channel=5V

On
Channel=5V,

+0.2

Off
Channel=0V

+1

14

1/16

DIGITAL AND DC CHARACTERISTICS

VIN(1), Logical 1 Input

VCC =5.25V

2.0

2.0

2.0

VCC =4.75V

0.8

0.8

0.8

Voltage (Min)
VIN(0), Logical 0 Input
Voltage (Max)
IIN(1), Logical 1 Input

VIN =5.0V

0.005

0.005

VIN =0V

0.005

0.005

2.4

2.4

Current (Max)
IIN(0), Logical 0 Input
Current (Max)
VOUT(1), Logical 1 Output

VCC =4.75V

Voltage (Min)

IOUT =360 A
IOUT =10 A

4.5

4.5

4.5

VOUT(0), Logical 0 Output

VCC =4.75V

0.4

0.4

0.4

Voltage (Max)

IOUT =1.6 mA

IOUT, TRI-STATE Output

VOUT =0V

2.4

0.1

0.1

Current (Max)

VOUT =5V

0.1

0.1

+3

+3

ISOURCE, Output Source

VOUT =0V

14

6.5

14

7.5

6.5

mA

VOUT =VCC

16

8.0

16

9.0

8.0

mA

0.9

2.5

0.9

2.5

2.5

mA

2.3

6.5

2.3

6.5

6.5

mA

Current (Min)
ISINK, Output Sink Current (Min)
ICC, Supply Current (Max)
ADC0831, ADC0834,
ADC0838
ADC0832

Includes
Ladder
Current

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Converter and Multiplexer Electrical Characteristics The following specifications apply for
VCC = V+ = VREF = 5V, VREF VCC +0.1V, TA = Tj = 25C, and fCLK = 250 kHz unless otherwise specified. Boldface limits
apply from TMIN to TMAX. (Continued)

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

AC Characteristics
The following specifications apply for VCC = 5V, tr = tf = 20 ns and 25C unless otherwise specified.
Parameter
fCLK, Clock Frequency

Conditions

Typ

Tested

Design

Limit

(Note 12)

Limit

Limit

Units

(Note 13)

(Note 14)

Min

10

Max
tC, Conversion Time

kHz
400

Not including MUX Addressing Time

kHz
1/fCLK

Clock Duty Cycle

Min

40

(Note 10)

Max

60

250

ns

90

ns

tSET-UP, CS Falling Edge or

Data Input Valid to CLK

Rising Edge
tHOLD, Data Input Valid
after CLK Rising Edge
tpd1, tpd0 CLK Falling

CL =100 pF

Edge to Output Data Valid

Data MSB First

650

1500

ns

(Note 11)

Data LSB First

250

600

ns

t1H, t0H, Rising Edge of

CL =10 pF, RL =10k

125

250

ns

CS to Data Output and

(see TRI-STATE Test Circuits)

SARS HiZ

CL =100 pf, RL =2k

500

CIN, Capacitance of Logic

ns

pF

pF

Input
COUT, Capacitance of Logic
Outputs
Note 1: Absolute Maximum Ratings indicate limits beyond which damage to the device may occur. DC and AC electrical specifications do not apply when operating
the device beyond its specified operating conditions.
Note 2: All voltages are measured with respect to the ground plugs.
Note 3: Internal zener diodes (6.3 to 8.5V) are connected from V+ to GND and VCC to GND. The zener at V+ can operate as a shunt regulator and is connected
to VCC via a conventional diode. Since the zener voltage equals the A/Ds breakdown voltage, the diode insures that VCC will be below breakdown when the device
is powered from V+. Functionality is therefore guaranteed for V+ operation even though the resultant voltage at VCC may exceed the specified Absolute Max of 6.5V.
It is recommended that a resistor be used to limit the max current into V+. (See Figure 3 in Functional Description Section 6.0)
Note 4: When the input voltage (VIN) at any pin exceeds the power supply rails (VIN < V or VIN > V+) the absolute value of current at that pin should be limited
to 5 mA or less. The 20 mA package input current limits the number of pins that can exceed the power supply boundaries with a 5 mA current limit to four.
Note 5: Human body model, 100 pF discharged through a 1.5 k resistor.
Note 6: Total unadjusted error includes offset, full-scale, linearity, and multiplexer errors.
Note 7: Cannot be tested for ADC0832.
Note 8: For VIN()VIN(+) the digital output code will be 0000 0000. Two on-chip diodes are tied to each analog input (see Block Diagram) which will forward conduct
for analog input voltages one diode drop below ground or one diode drop greater than the VCC supply. Be careful, during testing at low VCC levels (4.5V), as high
level analog inputs (5V) can cause this input diode to conduct especially at elevated temperatures, and cause errors for analog inputs near full-scale. The spec
allows 50 mV forward bias of either diode. This means that as long as the analog VIN or VREF does not exceed the supply voltage by more than 50 mV, the output
code will be correct. To achieve an absolute 0 VDC to 5 VDC input voltage range will therefore require a minimum supply voltage of 4.950 VDC over temperature
variations, initial tolerance and loading.
Note 9: Leakage current is measured with the clock not switching.
Note 10: A 40% to 60% clock duty cycle range insures proper operation at all clock frequencies. In the case that an available clock has a duty cycle outside of these
limits, the minimum, time the clock is high or the minimum time the clock is low must be at least 1 s. The maximum time the clock can be high is 60 s. The clock
can be stopped when low so long as the analog input voltage remains stable.
Note 11: Since data, MSB first, is the output of the comparator used in the successive approximation loop, an additional delay is built in (see Block Diagram) to allow
for comparator response time.
Note 12: Typicals are at 25C and represent most likely parametric norm.
Note 13: Tested limits are guaranteed to Nationals AOQL (Average Outgoing Quality Level).
Note 14: Guaranteed but not 100% production tested. These limits are not used to calculate outgoing quality levels.

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Typical Performance Characteristics

Linearity Error vs. VREF
Voltage

Unadjusted Offset Error vs. VREF Voltage

00558344
00558343

Linearity Error vs. Temperature

Linearity Error vs. fCLK

00558345

00558346

Power Supply Current vs. Temperature (ADC0838,

ADC0831, ADC0834)

Output Current vs. Temperature

00558348
00558347

Note: For ADC0832 add IREF.

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Typical Performance Characteristics

(Continued)

Power Supply Current vs. fCLK

00558329

Leakage Current Test Circuit

00558303

TRI-STATE Test Circuits and

Waveforms

t1H

t1H

00558351

t0H
00558349

t0H

00558352

00558350

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Data Input Timing

Data Output Timing

00558324

00558325

ADC0831 Start Conversion Timing

00558326

ADC0831 Timing

00558327

*LSB first output not available on ADC0831.

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Timing Diagrams

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Timing Diagrams

(Continued)
ADC0832 Timing

00558328

ADC0834 Timing

00558305

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10

(Continued)

*Make sure clock edge #18 clocks in the LSB before SE is taken low

Timing Diagrams
ADC0838 Timing

00558306

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

11

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12
00558307

Note 1: For the ADC0834, D1 is input directly to the D input of SELECT 1. SELECT 0 is forced to a 1. For the ADC0832, DI is input directly to the DI input of ODD/SIGN. SELECT 0 is forced to a 0 and SELECT 1 is forced to a
1.

*Some of these functions/pins are not available with other options.

ADC0838 Functional Block Diagram

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

1.0 multiplexer Addressing

The design of these converters utilizes a sample-data comparator structure which provides for a differential analog
input to be converted by a successive approximation routine.
The actual voltage converted is always the difference between an assigned + input terminal and a input terminal.
The polarity of each input terminal of the pair being converted indicates which line the converter expects to be the
most positive. If the assigned + input is less than the
input the converter responds with an all zeros output code.

The MUX address is shifted into the converter via the DI line.
Because the ADC0831 contains only one differential input
channel with a fixed polarity assignment, it does not require
addressing.
The common input line on the ADC0838 can be used as a
pseudo-differential input. In this mode, the voltage on this pin
is treated as the input for any of the other input channels.
This voltage does not have to be analog ground; it can be
any reference potential which is common to all of the inputs.
This feature is most useful in single-supply application where
the analog circuitry may be biased up to a potential other
than ground and the output signals are all referred to this
potential.

A unique input multiplexing scheme has been utilized to

provide multiple analog channels with software-configurable
single-ended, differential, or a new pseudo-differential option
which will convert the difference between the voltage at any
analog input and a common terminal. The analog signal
conditioning required in transducer-based data acquisition
systems is significantly simplified with this type of input
flexibility. One converter package can now handle ground
referenced inputs and true differential inputs as well as
signals with some arbitrary reference voltage.
A particular input configuration is assigned during the MUX
addressing sequence, prior to the start of a conversion. The
MUX address selects which of the analog inputs are to be

TABLE 1. Multiplexer/Package Options

Part
Number

Number of Analog Channels

Number of

Single-Ended

Differential

Package Pins

ADC0831

ADC0832

ADC0834

14

ADC0838

20

13

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

enabled and whether this input is single-ended or differential.

In the differential case, it also assigns the polarity of the
channels. Differential inputs are restricted to adjacent channel pairs. For example channel 0 and channel 1 may be
selected as a different pair but channel 0 or 1 cannot act
differentially with any other channel. In addition to selecting
differential mode the sign may also be selected. Channel 0
may be selected as the positive input and channel 1 as the
negative input or vice versa. This programmability is best
illustrated by the MUX addressing codes shown in the following tables for the various product options.

Functional Description

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Functional Description

(Continued)
TABLE 2. MUX Addressing: ADC0838

Single-Ended MUX Mode

Analog Single-Ended Channel #

MUX Address
SGL/

ODD/

SELECT

DIF

SIGN

COM

0
+

TABLE 3. MUX Addressing: ADC0838

Differential MUX Mode
Analog Differential Channel-Pair #

MUX Address
SGL/

ODD/

SELECT

DIF

SIGN

TABLE 4. MUX Addressing: ADC0834

Single-Ended MUX Mode
Channel #

MUX Address
SGL/

ODD/

SELECT

DIF

SIGN

+
+
+

COM is internally tied to A GND

TABLE 5. MUX Addressing: ADC0834

Differential MUX Mode
Channel #

MUX Address

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SGL/

ODD/

SELECT

DIF

SIGN

14

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Functional Description

(Continued)
TABLE 6. MUX Addressing: ADC0832
Single-Ended MUX Mode
MUX Address

Channel #

SGL/

ODD/

DIF

SIGN

+
+

COM is internally tied to A GND

TABLE 7. MUX Addressing: ADC0832

Differential MUX Mode
MUX Address

Channel #

SGL/

ODD/

DIF

SIGN

Since the input configuration is under software control, it can

be modified, as required, at each conversion. A channel can
be treated as a single-ended, ground referenced input for
one conversion; then it can be reconfigured as part of a
differential channel for another conversion. Figure 1 illustrates the input flexibility which can be achieved.
The analog input voltages for each channel can range from
50 mV below ground to 50 mV above VCC (typically 5V)
without degrading conversion accuracy.

converter package with no increase in package size and it

can eliminate the transmission of low level analog signals by
locating the converter right at the analog sensor; transmitting
highly noise immune digital data back to the host processor.
To understand the operation of these converters it is best to
refer to the Timing Diagrams and Functional Block Diagram
and to follow a complete conversion sequence. For clarity a
separate diagram is shown of each device.
1. A conversion is initiated by first pulling the CS (chip select)
line low. This line must be held low for the entire conversion.
The converter is now waiting for a start bit and its MUX
assignment word.
2. A clock is then generated by the processor (if not provided
continuously) and output to the A/D clock input.

2.0 THE DIGITAL INTERFACE

A most important characteristic of these converters is their
serial data link with the controlling processor. Using a serial
communication format offers two very significant system
improvements; it allows more function to be included in the

15

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Functional Description

(Continued)

8 Single-Ended

8 Pseudo-Differential

00558353

00558354

4 Differential

Mixed Mode

00558355

00558356

FIGURE 1. Analog Input Multiplexer Options for the ADC0838

on each falling edge of the clock. This data is the result of the
conversion being shifted out (with the MSB coming first) and
can be read by the processor immediately.
7. After 8 clock periods the conversion is completed. The
SAR status line returns low to indicate this 12 clock cycle
later.
8. If the programmer prefers, the data can be provided in an
LSB first format [this makes use of the shift enable (SE)
control line]. All 8 bits of the result are stored in an output
shift register. On devices which do not include the SE control
line, the data, LSB first, is automatically shifted out the DO
line, after the MSB first data stream. The DO line then goes
low and stays low until CS is returned high. On the ADC0838
the SE line is brought out and if held high, the value of the
LSB remains valid on the DO line. When SE is forced low,
the data is then clocked out LSB first. The ADC0831 is an
exception in that its data is only output in MSB first format.
9. All internal registers are cleared when the CS line is high.
If another conversion is desired, CS must make a high to low
transition followed by address information.
The DI and DO lines can be tied together and controlled
through a bidirectional processor I/O bit with one wire. This is

3. On each rising edge of the clock the status of the data in

(DI) line is clocked into the MUX address shift register. The
start bit is the first logic 1 that appears on this line (all
leading zeros are ignored). Following the start bit the converter expects the next 2 to 4 bits to be the MUX assignment
word.
4. When the start bit has been shifted into the start location
of the MUX register, the input channel has been assigned
and a conversion is about to begin. An interval of 12 clock
period (where nothing happens) is automatically inserted to
allow the selected MUX channel to settle. The SAR status
line goes high at this time to signal that a conversion is now
in progress and the DI line is disabled (it no longer accepts
data).
5. The data out (DO) line now comes out of TRI-STATE and
provides a leading zero for this one clock period of MUX
settling time.
6. When the conversion begins, the output of the SAR
comparator, which indicates whether the analog input is
greater than (high) or less than (low) each successive voltage from the internal resistor ladder, appears at the DO line

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16

tied to VCC (done internally on the ADC0832). This technique

relaxes the stability requirements of the system reference as
the analog input and A/D reference move together maintaining the same output code for a given input condition.
For absolute accuracy, where the analog input varies between very specific voltage limits, the reference pin can be
biased with a time and temperature stable voltage source.
The LM385 and LM336 reference diodes are good low current devices to use with these converters.

(Continued)

possible because the DI input is only looked-at during the

MUX addressing interval while the DO line is still in a high
impedance state.
3.0 Reference Considerations
The voltage applied to the reference input to these converters defines the voltage span of the analog input (the difference between VIN(MAX) and VIN(MIN)) over which the 256
possible output codes apply. The devices can be used in
either ratiometric applications or in systems requiring absolute accuracy. The reference pin must be connected to a
voltage source capable of driving the reference input resistance of typically 3.5 k. This pin is the top of a resistor
divider string used for the successive approximation conversion.
In a ratiometric system, the analog input voltage is proportional to the voltage used for the A/D reference. This voltage
is typically the system power supply, so the VREF pin can be

The maximum value of the reference is limited to the VCC

supply voltage. The minimum value, however, can be quite
small (see Typical Performance Characteristics) to allow
direct conversions of transducer outputs providing less than
a 5V output span. Particular care must be taken with regard
to noise pickup, circuit layout and system error voltage
sources when operating with a reduced span due to the
increased sensitivity of the converter (1 LSB equals
VREF/256).

00558358

00558357

b) Absolute with a reduced Span

a) Ratiometric

FIGURE 2. Reference Examples

4.0 The Analog Inputs
The most important feature of these converters is that they
can be located right at the analog signal source and through
just a few wires can communicate with a controlling processor with a highly noise immune serial bit stream. This in itself
greatly minimizes circuitry to maintain analog signal accuracy which otherwise is most susceptible to noise pickup.
However, a few words are in order with regard to the analog
inputs should the input be noisy to begin with or possibly
riding on a large common-mode voltage.
The differential input of these converters actually reduces
the effects of common-mode input noise, a signal common
to both selected + and inputs for a conversion (60 Hz is
most typical). The time interval between sampling the +
input and then the input is 12 of a clock period. The
change in the common-mode voltage during this short time
interval can cause conversion errors. For a sinusoidal
common-mode signal this error is:

where fCM is the frequency of the common-mode signal,

VPEAK is its peak voltage value
and fCLK, is the A/D clock frequency.
For a 60 Hz common-mode signal to generate a 14 LSB error
(5 mV) with the converter running at 250 kHz, its peak value
would have to be 6.63V which would be larger than allowed
as it exceeds the maximum analog input limits.
Due to the sampling nature of the analog inputs short spikes
of current enter the + input and exit the input at the
clock edges during the actual conversion. These currents
decay rapidly and do not cause errors as the internal comparator is strobed at the end of a clock period. Bypass
capacitors at the inputs will average these currents and
cause an effective DC current to flow through the output

17

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Functional Description

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Functional Description

(Continued)

resistance of the analog signal source. Bypass capacitors

should not be used if the source resistance is greater than 1
k.
This source resistance limitation is important with regard to
the DC leakage currents of input multiplexer as well. The
worst-case leakage current of 1 A over temperature will
create a 1 mV input error with a 1 k source resistance. An
op amp RC active low pass filter can provide both impedance buffering and noise filtering should a high impedance
signal source be required.

where:
VMAX = the high end of the analog input range
and
VMIN = the low end (the offset zero) of the analog
range.
(Both are ground referenced.)
The VREF (or VCC) voltage is then adjusted to provide a code
change from FEHEX to FFHEX. This completes the adjustment procedure.

5.0 Optional Adjustments

5.1 Zero Error
The zero of the A/D does not require adjustment. If the
minimum analog input voltage value, VIN(MIN), is not ground
a zero offset can be done. The converter can be made to
output 0000 0000 digital code for this minimum input voltage
by biasing any VIN () input at this VIN(MIN) value. This
utilizes the differential mode operation of the A/D.

6.0 Power Supply

A unique feature of the ADC0838 and ADC0834 is the inclusion of a zener diode connected from the V+ terminal to
ground which also connects to the VCC terminal (which is the
actual converter supply) through a silicon diode, as shown in
Figure 3. (Note 3)

The zero error of the A/D converter relates to the location of

the first riser of the transfer function and can be measured by
grounding the VIN() input and applying a small magnitude
positive voltage to the VIN(+) input. Zero error is the difference between the actual DC input voltage which is necessary to just cause an output digital code transition from 0000
0000 to 0000 0001 and the ideal 12 LSB value (12 LSB=9.8
mV for VREF =5.000 VDC).
5.2 Full-Scale
The full-scale adjustment can be made by applying a differential input voltage which is 1 12 LSB down from the desired
analog full-scale voltage range and then adjusting the magnitude of the VREF input (or VCC for the ADC0832) for a
digital output code which is just changing from 1111 1110 to
1111 1111.

00558311

FIGURE 3. An On-Chip Shunt Regulator Diode

5.3 Adjusting for an Arbitrary Analog Input Voltage

Range
If the analog zero voltage of the A/D is shifted away from
ground (for example, to accommodate an analog input signal
which does not go to ground), this new zero reference
should be properly adjusted first. A VIN (+) voltage which
equals this desired zero reference plus 12 LSB (where the
LSB is calculated for the desired analog span, using 1 LSB=
analog span/256) is applied to selected + input and the
zero reference voltage at the corresponding input should
then be adjusted to just obtain the 00HEX to 01HEX code
transition.
The full-scale adjustment should be made [with the proper
VIN() voltage applied] by forcing a voltage to the VIN(+)
input which is given by:

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This zener is intended for use as a shunt voltage regulator to

eliminate the need for any additional regulating components.
This is most desirable if the converter is to be remotely
located from the system power source.Figure 4 and Figure 5
illustrate two useful applications of this on-board zener when
an external transistor can be afforded.
An important use of the interconnecting diode between V+
and VCC is shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7. Here, this diode
is used as a rectifier to allow the VCC supply for the converter
to be derived from the clock. The low current requirements of
the A/D and the relatively high clock frequencies used (typically in the range of 10k400 kHz) allows using the small
value filter capacitor shown to keep the ripple on the VCC line
to well under 14 of an LSB. The shunt zener regulator can
also be used in this mode. This requires a clock voltage
swing which is in excess of VZ. A current limit for the zener is
needed, either built into the clock generator or a resistor can
be used from the CLK pin to the V+ pin.

18

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

00558312
00558335

*4.5V VCC 6.3V

FIGURE 4. Operating with a Temperature

Compensated Reference

FIGURE 6. Generating VCC from the Converter Clock

00558336

*4.5V VCC 6.3V

00558334

FIGURE 5. Using the A/D as

the System Supply Regulator

FIGURE 7. Remote Sensing

Clock and Power on 1 Wire

Digital Link and Sample Controlling Software for theSerially Oriented COP420 and the Bit Programmable I/O INS8048

00558313

19

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

8048 CODING EXAMPLE

(Continued)

Mnemonic

Cop Coding Example

Mnemonic

START:

Instruction

LEI

ENABLES SIOs INPUT AND OUTPUT

SC

C=1

OGI

G0=0 (CS =0)

CLR A

CLEARS ACCUMULATOR

AISC 1

LOADS ACCUMULATOR WITH 1

XAS

EXCHANGES SIO WITH ACCUMULATOR

B, #5

MOV

A, #ADDR

RRC

;AMUX ADDRESS
;CYADDRESS BIT

JC

ONE

;TEST BIT

ANL

P1, #0FEH ;DI0

JMP

CONT

;CONTINUE

ONE:

ORL

P1, #1

;BIT=1
;DI1

CONT:

CALL

PULSE

;PULSE SK 010

DJNZ

B, LOOP 1 ;CONTINUE UNTIL

DONE

CALL

PULSE

MOV

B, #8

LOOP 1:

;BIT=0
ZERO:

LOADS MUX ADDRESS FROM RAM

INTO ACCUMULATOR

NOP

XAS

LOADS MUX ADDRESS FROM

P1, #0F7H ;SELECT A/D (CS =0)

;BIT COUNTER5

MOV

AND STARTS SK CLOCK

LDD

ANL

Instruction

ACCUMULATOR TO SIO REGISTER

8 INSTRUCTIONS

;PULSE SK 010
;CYDO

CALL

PULSE

READS HIGH ORDER NIBBLE (4 BITS)

IN

A, P1

INTO ACCUMULATOR

RRC

XIS

PUTS HIGH ORDER NIBBLE INTO RAM

RRC

CLR A

CLEARS ACCUMULATOR

MOV

A, C

RC

C=0

RLC

XAS

READS LOW ORDER NIBBLE INTO

MOV

C, A

ACCUMULATOR AND STOPS SK

DJNZ

B, LOOP 2 ;CONTINUE UNTIL

DONE

XAS

XIS

PUTS LOW ORDER NIBBLE INTO RAM

OGI

G0=1 (CS =1)

LEI

DISABLES SIOs INPUT AND OUTPUT

LOOP 2:

;EXTRA CLOCK FOR

SYNC
;BIT COUNTER8

RETR
PULSE:

ORL

20

P1, #04

;PULSE SUBROUTINE
;SK1

NOP

;DELAY

ANL

P1, #0FBH ;SK0

RET

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;ARESULT
;A(0)BIT AND SHIFT
;CRESULT

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
A Stand-Alone Hook-Up for ADC0838 Evaluation

00558359

*Pinouts shown for ADC0838.

For all other products tie to

pin functions as shown.

Low-Cost Remote Temperature Sensor

00558360

21

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Digitizing a Current Flow

00558315

Operating with Ratiometric Transducers

00558337

*VIN() = 0.15 VCC

15% of VCC VXDR 85% of VCC

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22

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Span Adjust: 0VVIN3V

00558361

Zero-Shift and Span Adjust: 2VVIN5V

00558362

23

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Obtaining Higher Resolution

00558363

a) 9-Bit A/D

00558364

Controller performs a routine to determine which input polarity (9-bit example) or which channel pair (10-bit example) provides a non-zero output code. This
information provides the extra bits.

b) 10-Bit A/D

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24

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Protecting the Input

00558318

Diodes are 1N914

High Accuracy Comparators

00558338

DO = all 1s if +VIN > VIN

DO = all 0s if +VIN < VIN

25

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Digital Load Cell

00558319

Uses one more wire than load cell itself

Two mini-DIPs could be mounted inside load cell for digital output transducer
Electronic offset and gain trims relax mechanical specs for gauge factor and offset
Low level cell output is converted immediately for high noise immunity

4 mA-20 mA Current Loop Converter

00558320

All power supplied by loop

1500V isolation at output

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26

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Isolated Data Converter

00558339

No power required remotely

1500V isolation

27

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Two Wire Interface for 8 Channels

00558321

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28

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Applications

(Continued)
Two Wire 1-Channels Interface

00558322

29

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Physical Dimensions

inches (millimeters)

unless otherwise noted

Wide Body Molded Small-Outline Package (WM)

NS Package Number M14B

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30

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Physical Dimensions

inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted (Continued)

Wide Body Molded Small-Outline Package (WM)

NS Package Number M20B

Molded Dual-In-Line Package (N)

NS Package Number N08E

31

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ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838

Physical Dimensions

inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted (Continued)

Molded Dual-In-Line Package (N)

NS Package Number N14A

Molded-Dual-In-Line Package (N)

NS Package Number N20A

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32

inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted (Continued)

Molded Chip Carrier Package (V)

Order Number ADC0838BCV or ADC0838CCV
NS Package Number V20A

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National does not assume any responsibility for use of any circuitry described, no circuit patent licenses are implied and National reserves the right at any time without notice to change said circuitry and specifications.

ADC0831/ADC0832/ADC0834/ADC0838 8-Bit Serial I/O A/D Converters with Multiplexer Options

Physical Dimensions